THE TEES REGION ’ S BEST RESTAURANTS
20th Five Houses Kitchen , Crathorne This traditional yet luxurious bistro is housed in a converted Grade II-listed farm building featuring whitewashed floors and bare brick walls lined with Lucy Pittaway prints . Being on the same complex as a farm shop and Kitson ’ s butchers guarantees that only the best quality meat and super fresh produce is used to create the weekly changing , mouthwatering menus .
19th Joplins , Great Ayton A perfect location for romantics , this atmospheric little restaurant is a wellknown gem in the village of Great Ayton , seating just 24 by candlelight in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere . The warm welcome matches the superb food on offer , which changes seasonally and uses ingredients provided by Hodgson Fish and Petch Butchers .
17th Christie ’ s at The Zetland , Middlesbrough This wonderful brasserie serves modern European cuisine from a Grade II-listed grand Victorian room set within the historic former Zetland Hotel . Built as a pub and hotel in 1860 , The Zetland was lovingly restored in 2017 , including sourcing custom-made tiles from the firm that made tiles for the pub over 120 years ago .
16th Herd & Herb , Sedgefield A new name in our top 20 , this lovely 60-cover eatery can be found inside the Hardwick Arms Hotel . Featuring industrial décor , a trendy , modern atmosphere and a 20-seater lounge , welcome and cocktail area , food is based on a British modern style with classic twists from locally sourced suppliers .
14th The Blackwell Ox , Carlton-in- Cleveland A new entry into the top 20 this year , The Blackwell Ox Inn and holiday lodge park is a traditional , welcoming country pub which offers authentic Thai cuisine alongside a range of light meals and traditional English fare . Staff use local ingredients where possible , and meals are taken in an atmospheric seating area , alongside open log fires in the winter .
13th Peppermill Bistro , Billingham Another newbie to our top 20 , this family-run restaurant in Billingham works hard to present a fresh , seasonal and unique menu in a modern , friendly and welcoming bistro environment . An early bird menu offers great value for money – pop in also for tapas , afternoon tea , sandwiches , platters or just coffee and cake from 12-3pm Friday and Saturday .
18th La Porto Italiano , Norton and Billingham When only an Italian will do , head to La Porto Italiano . The authentic eatery has branches in Norton and Billingham , both offering great quality pizza and pasta at very reasonable prices . Dinner is served till late , but you can pop in for breakfast , brunch or just a coffee and a slice of cake from 10am .
15th The Violet Green , Norton We welcome The Violet Green to our annual top 20 for the first time . Perfect for casual dining , with an uncomplicated , great value for money , yet refined menu , using produce supplied by big Teesside brands Blackwell ’ s butchers and Hodgson Fish , this hidden gem is located in the basement of an old village bank , so is big on atmosphere as well as taste !
12th Vadah , Stockton Back in the top 20 after four years , Vadah serves up traditional Indian cuisine with a 21st-century twist . With a dedication to elevating the experience of Indian fine dining , time is spent on beautiful preparation as well as amazing tastes . Added to breath-taking riverside views , Vadah is perfect for a romantic evening , special celebration or just to treat yourself .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 17